Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder cannot be identified physiologically. That means it cannot be found by things like blood tests or brain scans. It is diagnosed based on symptoms and course of illness. When available, family history plays a role in diagnosis. The diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder are described in the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5).

Bipolar disorder is often diagnosed based on the following:

Initial assessment—Your doctor will ask about your symptoms. You will also be asked about your medical and family history. Your doctor may want to interview your family members and/or other people close to you.

Physical exam—Your doctor will do a physical exam. You may be given several lab tests to rule out other causes for your moods and behavior. Those causes could include
hyperthyroidism
or
hypothyroidism
. If a physical cause for your symptoms is ruled out, you may be referred to a psychiatrist for a psychological evaluation.

Psychological evaluation—After you see your regular doctor, a psychiatrist will be able to evaluate your symptoms. Diagnosis of bipolar disorder is based on:

Presence of symptoms over time

Absence of medications that could cause mood symptoms or medical or neurological illness that may look like bipolar disorder

Family history of bipolar disorder

Mania
could be diagnosed based on an abnormally elevated mood. It must last at least one week. It also must occur with 3 or more of the other symptoms of mania. If your mood is irritable, 4 additional symptoms must be present.

Depression
is diagnosed based on depressed mood or loss of interest in pleasure. It must occur every day, or nearly every day. This must last 2 weeks, and be accompanied by 5 or more of the symptoms.

A diagnostic evaluation may include a mental status exam. This helps determine if your speech, thought patterns, or memory have been affected. Sometimes this happens in the case of bipolar disorder.

You may also be evaluated for other psychiatric conditions. These include
anxiety
disorders, or
alcohol
or
drug use disorders. You will also be evaluated for other potential medical and neurological causes for your symptoms.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.